Avoid Foot and Ankle Injuries During Winter Sports
The joy of winter is upon us, along with the... Read Article
Here in Tahoe-Truckee, it’s easy to get used to exploring our own backyard. With sparkling blue lakes, a plethora of year-round hiking, biking and skiing trails, dramatic postcard-worthy landscapes and epic sunsets, we really do have it all. You could spend a lifetime exploring here and never get bored.
Photo: Desolation Wilderness is a great place for everyone to explore. Photo Credit: Kirsten Alexis
But just beyond the Tahoe-Truckee region lies a different kind of magic. A magic that invites you to explore beyond the top attractions and discover new landscapes, experiences and communities. From the rugged backcountry trails of Desolation Wilderness to the vibrant energy of the Biggest Little City, there’s something for everyone to explore.
Below, I have curated a list of places for you to visit and venture off the beaten path. Have fun exploring and leave no trace!
Lake Aloha is a must-do hike in the Desolation Wilderness. Photo Credit: Kirsten Alexis
Desolation Wilderness
Probably the most sought-after backcountry hiking destination in the region, Desolation Wilderness is close enough to South Lake Tahoe, yet worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the top attractions and entertainment.
Here, you can truly feel like you got away from it all and unwind as you explore the vast network of trails that feature towering granite peaks, jagged rock formations, dense forests and an abundance of sparkling alpine lakes, perfect for cooling off in. There’s something for everyone here, including easy to moderate half-day hikes, challenging summits and multi-day backpacking options.
One of my favorite introductory hikes in this region is Lake Aloha. Starting at Echo Lakes, this moderate 12.5-mile round-trip hike features sparkling turquoise lakes, panoramic Sierra views and wildflowers in the late spring and early summer. Although Lake Aloha is typically the main destination, I highly recommend exploring some of the other lakes on the trail including Lake of the Woods. You can also opt to camp overnight here and will need a Desolation Wilderness permit. I highly advise you to get a permit in advance because they are limited and will fill up quickly in the high season.
If you want to get a taste of Desolation Wilderness without heading too far out of South Lake Tahoe, you can access it easily via Emerald Bay. Here, you can explore Maggie's Peaks, Eagle Lake, Cathedral Lake and Mount Tallac.
Lake Winnemucca is a fun hike for everyone and a great introduction to the Carson Pass area. Photo Credit: Kirsten Alexis
Carson Pass
About an hour south of South Lake Tahoe awaits the Carson Pass region, an oasis for hiking, climbing, alpine lakes for swimming and ski touring in the winter.
A hike I will always recommend to first-timers in the region is Lake Winnemucca. It’s a great year-round hike or ski tour for all levels and abilities to enjoy. I especially love it in late spring and early summer when the wildflowers are in bloom and bring the trail to life.
At just over 5 miles round trip, this hike is a perfect way to kick off your adventures in the Carson Pass area. Featuring panoramic views of the valley and surrounding rugged peaks, this trail leads to Lake Winnemucca, a great place to swim or enjoy your lunch. If you’d like to get more miles and elevation gain, continue to Round Top. If you’d like to see more of the Carson Pass and Kirkwood area, head back to your car and check out nearby Caples Lake or Hope Valley.
Reno
Just north of Incline Village and down the hill lies Reno, an energetic contrast to the Tahoe-Truckee region. “The Biggest Little City in the World” sure packs a punch with a plethora of resorts, casinos, restaurants, storefronts, spas, art galleries, museums and events.
Over the years, Reno has grown and transformed into a city that draws creatives, entrepreneurs, foodies and adventure-seekers from all over the world. Although many people still think of Reno as a “mini Vegas,” there’s much more to do beyond the casinos. If you enjoy boutique stores and charming cafes, head to Midtown. This historic and colorful art district is full of local businesses, delicious and diverse dining options, and art and live music venues.
Although it seems like the city is bustling at all hours, there are also options to escape to pockets of nature with local hikes, riverwalks and farms. One of the more popular attractions is the Truckee River Trail, an easy walk along the river that offers views of the city, parks and natural surroundings.
Pyramid Lake
About an hour northeast of Reno, Pyramid Lake offers otherworldly landscapes and challenging cycling opportunities and is a favorite spot for stargazers and astrophotographers.
You can easily combine this with your visit to Reno or opt to spend an entire day in Reno and another day here, especially if you want to take advantage of biking the Tahoe-Pyramid Bikeway or go fishing on the lake.
Upper Sardine Lakes is a great place to explore and go for a swim. Photo Credit: Kirsten Alexis
Sierraville
Just north of Truckee lies Sierraville, a serene basecamp for adventure in the Lost Sierra region. This underrated region is packed with dramatic peaks, clear alpine lakes, expansive forested areas, ranch lands and charming little towns.
One of the more popular summer activities here is hiking and for good reason. The trails here are rarely crowded, offering a unique chance to unplug and connect with the landscape. One of my favorite hikes that all ages can enjoy is Sardine Lakes, located just 30 minutes outside Sierraville town. This trail will take you from Lower Sardine Lake to Upper Sardine Lake, one of the best spots to see the Sierra Buttes and take an afternoon swim. If you’d like to add on an additional and more challenging hike, opt to head to the Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout Hike.
Although I love summer here, I also believe that fall is a great season to go. You will have a chance to see vivid foliage line the trails and experience it in the off-season.
If you’re into stargazing and night photography, Sierraville offers some of the best chances to see the night sky, uninterrupted by light pollution due to its more remote location. On a clear night, you can easily spot various stars and constellations.
Nevada City
Nevada City, located southwest of Truckee, is a small, charming historic Gold Rush town with a lot of character. This picturesque town is known for its vibrant downtown district, which boasts preserved Victorian-era homes, museums, unique storefronts, restaurants, art galleries and the Nevada Theater, California’s oldest continually operated theater.
But there’s more than meets the eye in Nevada City. Once you’ve explored downtown, check out South Yuba River State Park, a great place to hike and explore local swimming holes.
About the Author Kirsten Alexis
Kirsten is an outdoor adventure enthusiast, writer and photographer. You can typically find her hiking, paddleboarding, cross-country skiing and checking out new spots to share in the Tahoe Donner region. She has been lucky to call Tahoe her second home since she was a child and aims to inspire people to experience Tahoe and fall in love with the beauty and adventurous spirit of the region through her blogs and content. 
